Ricardo Assis Rosa

Dr. Ricardo Assis Rosa is a Senior Lecturer in Architecture specializing in Design and Technology at Oxford Brookes University's School of Architecture. As both an alumnus and current faculty member, he brings extensive professional experience as a RIBA Qualified Architect to his academic role. His teaching and research adopt a multidisciplinary approach that integrates Architecture, Interior Design, Product Design, and Fine Arts with technological innovation.

His research focuses on the intersection of traditional craftsmanship and digital fabrication, particularly exploring bamboo (Guadua) as a sustainable building material. Rosa's PhD by Design research, titled "Mind, Tool and Matter - Synergies in Digital Fabrication and Bamboo Craftsmanship," investigates how digital technologies can enhance traditional bamboo craftsmanship while maintaining cultural relevance and sustainability. His work addresses critical challenges in bamboo construction including material standardization, connection techniques, and developing practical digital fabrication solutions accessible to communities where bamboo grows abundantly.

Rosa has presented significant research at RIBA conferences on material studies in architectural education and has developed numerous architectural projects spanning from campus installations like the Rain Pavilion to international collaborations including the Sino-UK initiative hosted by Tsinghua University. His publications explore digital craft in masonry, material perception, and the cultural implications of design processes.

• Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy
• Regular presenter at RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) conferences
• Invited lecturer for the Sino-UK collaboration organized by the Architectural Association of China and British Council

With a background spanning theater design, building site experience, and historical restoration of vernacular architecture in Portugal, Rosa brings unique perspective to architectural education. His approach emphasizes the importance of material knowledge, spatial experience, and narrative in design practice. He has coordinated student live projects including Pavilion Design Competitions and developed collaborative workshops between Arts and Architecture departments. His design portfolio includes international projects across Colombia, China, India, Greece, and the UK, demonstrating his commitment to culturally sensitive and contextually appropriate architecture.